The Dilemma: To Cut or Not to Cut?
You find yourself staring at that same tree again. You know the one, with its split trunk or the strange fungal growth. It’s been a part of your yard for years, but lately, something seems… off.
So what now? Is it just stressed and salvageable, or is it time to say goodbye?
The short answer? It depends.
But we can help you figure it out.
Signs Your Tree Might Be in Trouble
Some issues are obvious; others are subtle. Here are a few red flags that might mean a tree is hazardous, dying, or beyond saving:
- Large dead branches or canopy dieback
- Significant lean (especially if recent or increasing)
- Deep trunk cracks or splitting
- Fungal growth near the base (like mushrooms or conks)
- Root upheaval or visible root rot
- Bark falling off in large sections
- Insect infestation (like carpenter ants or boring beetles)
Not all of these are automatic death sentences, but any one of them should prompt a professional evaluation.
Can Pruning or Cabling Save My Tree?
Sometimes, a troubled tree just needs a little support. If the core structure is still sound, and the root system is stable, corrective pruning or structural cabling may preserve the tree for years to come.
Tree-saving options may include:
- Deadwood pruning
- Crown reduction or thinning
- Installation of support cables or braces
- Soil treatment and plant health care
Learn more about our proactive approach to tree health
When Removal is the Best (and Safest) Option
Unfortunately, not every tree can or should be saved. If a tree poses a risk to your home, neighbors, or surrounding trees, removal is often the wisest path.
You should consider tree removal if:
- The tree is more than 50% dead or decayed
- It poses a clear fall hazard
- It’s growing too close to structures or power lines
- The species is known to fail under stress (such as silver maple or black locust)
- It’s showing signs of irreversible disease or pest infestation
- It’s damaging your foundation, driveway, or underground utilities
Pacific Arboriculture provides safe, crane-assisted tree removal when necessary
How Pacific Arboriculture Helps You Decide
We don’t jump straight to removal. Our ISA Certified Arborists assess the full picture: tree species, age, structural integrity, site conditions, and long-term viability.
We’ll walk you through your options: saving the tree when possible, removing it when necessary, and always keeping safety and value top of mind.
You’ll get:
- An honest, expert evaluation
- A written quote and action plan
- Optional support with permits and insurance documentation
- Emergency services if the tree becomes an immediate threat
Want a Professional Assessment?
It’s understandable that removing a tree can feel like a big (and final) decision. That’s why we always aim to provide clarity, not pressure.
If you’re worried about a tree on your property, reach out. We’ll tell you what we’d do if it were our own yard.
